Two staff members of the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) attended the Psychiatric Congress in Suriname in order to "receive new insight into the etiology and treatment of the disease (depression)" says Angie Stelk, coordinator of the Faraja Center at the Mental Health Foundation (MHF).
Two staff members of the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) attended the Psychiatric Congress in Suriname in order to "receive new insight into the etiology and treatment of the disease (depression)" says Angie Stelk, coordinator of the Faraja Center at the Mental Health Foundation (MHF).
"We deal with Clients that have other mental illnesses alongside depression" says Angie
"Therefore we can help treat not just one but many other types of mental illnesses at the same time."
The main slogan of the Congress was entitled "Deperssie, de niet erkende pandemic" which, translated into English, means "Depression: The not Known Pandemic".
The sessions, which lasted for two days, from October 2nd and 3rd 2010, was filled with lectures as well as workshops and ended with a presentation of certificates.
Dr. Itzhak Levav, a world renowned Israeli psychiatrist who sits on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) "Panel Of Experts", was the key note speaker
Depression, the World Health Organization (WHO) explains "is a common mental disorder that presents with depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration".
If these feelings persist or reoccur they can lead to a person’s inability to care for him or herself in everyday responsibilities. In addition to that, a deep Depression if not monitored, could for some lead to suicide.
Angie Stelk states "The hidden side of depression is what makes us overlook what is in front of us. Many people mask their depression and it goes unnoticed for years".
The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) would like to remind the public of the potential danger of Depression, and its impact on the lives of millions around the world.